If I'm correct with my analysis in the two previous parts of this series, the Oakland Raiders will bring a 6-2 record into week nine of the 2010 NFL season. But can the winning continue? It's possible, but winning in the third quarter of the season will a tall order to say the least.
Let's take a look.
Week Nine: The Kansas City Chiefs.
The Chiefs are an improved team from last year, but they aren't as improved as the Raiders. They selected the best safety in the draft, Eric Berry. This will most certainly improve their secondary play, but they didn't do much to upgrade their weak offensive and defensive lines.
Charlie Weis and Romeo Crennel are now on the Kansas City coaching staff. This means with Matt Cassel running the show, we can expect them to look a lot like the New England Patriots of five or six years ago...without all the talent. If we can control the quick, short pass to rookie Dexter McCluster and draw plays to Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones their offense will be largely neutralized.
To get to their defense, the Raiders must pound the ball between the tackles to set up play action. The defensive line of the Chiefs isn't horrible, but can be taken advantage of by the Raider's guards. There should be some nice running lanes for Michael Bush and Darren McFadden to exploit.
Once the run has been established, Jason Campbell can take advantage of the Chief's inexperienced secondary. Play action will keep the solid Chiefs linebackers in check while the young, speedy Raider's receivers find space in which to work and get open. This should lead to some big plays and big points for the Raiders.
At the rate they're going, the Chiefs will not be a push over, but they aren't ready to compete for another couple of seasons.
Projection: Raiders-27 Chiefs-14
Week 11: At The Pittsburgh St...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Oakland Raiders
